Should a New Chemical for Thinning Apples and Pears Be Approved?
Official title: Consultation on metamitron, Brevis 150 SC, and Brevis 15 SG, Proposed Registration Decision PRD2025-05
Health Canada is deciding whether to approve metamitron, a chemical that helps apple and pear growers thin their fruit. Thinning removes excess fruit so the remaining ones grow larger and better. The consultation period has now closed.
Why This Matters
Eat apples or pears? This chemical could end up on fruit you buy. Farmers say it helps produce better fruit with less manual labour. Health Canada reviewed the safety data—now they're deciding if it meets Canadian standards.
What Could Change
If approved, three new pesticide products containing metamitron would be registered for sale in Canada. Apple and pear growers could use them to thin their crops. A final Registration Decision will be published after Health Canada reviews all feedback.
Key Issues
- Is metamitron safe for human health when used on apples and pears?
- What are the environmental risks of this chemical?
- Should Brevis 150 SC and Brevis 15 SG be registered for use in Canada?
How to Participate
- Review the Consultation Summary document to understand the proposed registration.